Mt. Everest & Retirement
Conquering the summit of Everest is a physical challenge unlike any other on earth. On the way up the mountain, climbers are motivated by viewing the spectacular peaks looming ahead and the glory and sense of accomplishment that the summit will bring. However, on the descent, they now have the gravity pulling them towards horrifying views of 10,000 ft drop-offs. Some of the deaths are the result of technical errors, but the vast majority result from climbers not wisely conserving their most precious commodity – OXYGEN.
Many of you reading this today are either nearing the summit of your working years or have already started the descent into retirement. A common thread in our conversations with clients regarding retirement issues is the anxiety generated by the realization that someday there will be a “last paycheck” from employment. Income is the equivalent of oxygen, and most of our clients have concerns about whether or not they will have enough of this precious commodity to maintain their dignity and independence as they navigate through their retirement years.
A sad commentary about the financial planning industry is that many advisors focus on having their clients reach the summit (accumulation phase) of retirement, but very little timing planning a successful descent. Our firm employs strategies that will enhance the likelihood that you won’t outlive your resources.
The story of Mt. Everest and the current landscape of retirement planning have more parallels than we initially think. During the accumulation phase (or on your way up the mountain), the sequence of returns in your portfolio don’t affect you as much. In some instances, they can actually help you. The law of averages takes over during the accumulation phase. However, the sequence of returns once you retire (or hit the summit) now become paramount for your financial descent down the mountain known as retirement years. A large market correction in the early years of retirement can have a horrific effect on our rate of success down the mountain.
Many of you reading this today are either nearing the summit of your working years or have already started the descent into retirement. A common thread in our conversations with clients regarding retirement issues is the anxiety generated by the realization that someday there will be a “last paycheck” from employment. Income is the equivalent of oxygen, and most of our clients have concerns about whether or not they will have enough of this precious commodity to maintain their dignity and independence as they navigate through their retirement years.
A sad commentary about the financial planning industry is that many advisors focus on having their clients reach the summit (accumulation phase) of retirement, but very little timing planning a successful descent. Our firm employs strategies that will enhance the likelihood that you won’t outlive your resources.
The story of Mt. Everest and the current landscape of retirement planning have more parallels than we initially think. During the accumulation phase (or on your way up the mountain), the sequence of returns in your portfolio don’t affect you as much. In some instances, they can actually help you. The law of averages takes over during the accumulation phase. However, the sequence of returns once you retire (or hit the summit) now become paramount for your financial descent down the mountain known as retirement years. A large market correction in the early years of retirement can have a horrific effect on our rate of success down the mountain.